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FOUND: Chic Denim Pencil Skirts

Good clothing comes and goes, but some wardrobe pieces leave a lasting impression. I will always remember my first denim skirt. I was just entering fifth grade and my fashion sense up to that point tended towards "overdressed for every occasion." I lived in girlie dresses and perfectly matching outfits. My denim skirt was a departure. It was my first foray into contemporary casualwear. I thought my skirt was the most perfect piece of clothing ever invented: dark blue rigid denim by Osh Kosh B'Gosh with a slight bell shape. In the years since acquiring that denim wonder, my closet has almost always had a denim skirt tucked inside. The exception being the past five years.

It's not that I haven't wanted a denim skirt, it's just that the ones I have seen lately have felt a little too young for me. Too short; wrong shape; too beachy; to flippy. Every one a no-go. Could it be that denim skirts are just not an option for me anymore? I was about to give up when a new look in denim skirts emerged: the denim pencil skirt. These skirts are far from the beachy mini skirts that have been spotted on every waif-like teenager from San Diego to Coney Island. These skirts have class. Dignity. Shape. Finally, a denim skirt for me.

The Indigo Stretch Denim skirt by the very underrated label Esprit (above left) is super chic with clean lines and a modern wash. I could see this skirt at work on casual Friday topped with a twinset, at a Sunday brunch with a shrunken blazer, or paired with a sexy top and strappy sandals for a night out on the town. The casual Gap Denim Pencil Skirt (right) will be perfect for summer weekends when paired with a tank top and flat sandals and will transition right into fall with layered sweaters and boots.

You can purchase either skirt online by clicking on the photos. Esprit is currently offering an additional 10% off if you sign up for their e-newsletter and free shipping on any order over $30. Gap is offering free shipping on any order over $100.